For decades, type 1 diabetes cure research has come with a major catch: lifelong immunosuppression. But what if that was no longer required? In a groundbreaking clinical trial led by Otsuka Pharmaceuticals in collaboration with the University of Illinois Chicago, the first patient has been implanted with encapsulated neonatal pig islet cells without immunosuppressive drugs and is already seeing his insulin needs reduced by nearly half. We got to speak with him about his experience so far.

Michael Revland, who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 25 years, is patient one in the OPF-310 trial. The study places encapsulated porcine islet cells into the omentum through minimally invasive surgery, allowing them to mature and begin producing both insulin and glucagon. Six months in, Michael is seeing measurable insulin production, smoother glucose levels, and fewer severe lows as the cells continue to develop. His total daily dose has gone from an average of 45 units a day to about 25 units a day.

Earlier porcine islet attempts by Otsuka performed two decades ago produced mixed results, but this updated approach includes tighter sourcing, improved screening, and refined surgical protocols. While it is still early, the possibility of reducing or eliminating insulin needs without lifelong immunosuppression could fundamentally change the future of type 1 diabetes treatment.

In this conversation, Michael shares how he was selected, what the journey has been like so far, and what these early results could mean for the road ahead. Listen to the conversation above or watch, and see his logs first-hand in the video below.

Disclaimer: Diabetech content is not medical advice—it’s for educational purposes only. Always consult with a physician before making changes to your healthcare.